Freimauergedicht

The Measure of a Man

Not "How did he die?" But "How did he live?"

Not "What did he gain?" But "What did he give?"

Not "What was his station?" But "Had he a heart?"

And "How did he play his God-given part?"

Not "What was his shrine?" Nor "What was his creed?" But "Had he befriended those really in need?"

Not "What did the piece in the newspaper say?" But "How many were sorry when he passed away?"

Was he ever ready with a word or good cheer, To bring back a smile, to banish a tear? These are the units to measure the worth Of a man as a man, regardless of birth.